Meanwhile, upgrades to the inside of the terminal will include refurbishing the ground floor foyer, new security screens and modern furniture for the transit area in the first-floor function hall.

Fremantle Ports engaged Cox Howlett and Bailey Woodland architects to design the works and consult on heritage conservation requirements.

Customs arrival hall with new glass screens

The work has State Heritage Office approval and is expected to begin this month with completion in time for the 2018-19 cruise season.

Upper level with new glass security screen

The large and spacious Fremantle Passenger Terminal building has been a significant landmark on Victoria Quay since the opening of its first stage in 1960.

Refurbished entry foyer with new information booths

It is regarded as an excellent example of the post-war international style of architecture and is on Western Australia's permanent Register of Heritage Places.

Entry foyer with new glass security screen

Premier Mark McGowan said the upgrade was part of a suite of the Government's election commitments aimed at attracting more cruises to WA, which ultimately meant more jobs for Western Australians.

"The cruise sector is an increasingly important sector of Western Australia's tourism industry, servicing international and domestic markets, creating opportunities to showcase our State and making a strong contribution to our economy.

"Having frequented many ports in my life, they really are the gateway to a destination so it's essential WA has an inviting and comfortable passenger terminal to welcome our visitors and travelling residents to give our economy a much-needed boost."

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the works planned by Fremantle Ports for the terminal would improve the passenger experience in terms of both visual impressions and comfort.

"The Fremantle Passenger Terminal, although designed for an earlier era, has the berthing to handle very large cruise ships and space for servicing large numbers of embarking and disembarking passengers.

"Making it easier for cruise passengers to access the terminal is also important, so achieving better links with the Fremantle train station and Fremantle CBD will be part of our further planning for Victoria Quay."

Tourism Minister Paul Papalia said cruise shipping was an important sector of our tourism industry.

"WA is an attractive destination for cruise ships and with our Mediterranean climate in the south and tropical climate in the north, we have the capacity to support cruise ship visits year-round.

"These improvements to the Fremantle Passenger Terminal along with improvements at Broome Port will help the industry grow further, which will stimulate the economy and create jobs."